Need Help!- Thinking about buying Ajax for Boss 8 Series II

[Stephenwinter]

I have a Bridgeport Boss 8 series II and I am thinking about either getting someone to come and retrofit the Boss or maybe do it myself. What am I facing? What should I expect? I want to be able to design a part in Visual Cam and load it with a thumb drive. I have some concerns. How long will this take? Will it be accurate and stable? How in the world can you get rid of the huge power box now in the back of the Boss 8? I was told it was not needed in the retrofit. Where do the fuses etc go? Will I have wires hanging out doors or rough holes in the cabinet? Can I send them a cabinet and specs and have them put it together in the cabinet and just switch it over? Will I spend huge amounts of time getting it to work?
Steve

[ajaxscott]

Hi Steve,

This is Scott from Ajax. I believe we spoke the other day? (your from the mid-atlantic region?)

I should have mentioned this when we spoke but, if you would like, I can supply several references in your area for you to talk to. Some of them have done 5-10 Boss retrofits with our control and they are generally quite happy to provide pointers and advice regarding their own retrofit experience(s)

If you don't get the answers you are looking for here, please feel free to give me a call.

Regards

Scott

[cncsnw]

If you can use Visual Cam to design a part, describe a tool path, and produce a CNC (G code) program file, then yes, you can load it on a current Centroid or Ajax control using a thumb drive.

How long the retrofit will take depends on your aptitude for mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer tasks. I have assembled and/or installed a couple dozen Centroid controls, and would probably take 4-6 full days to do a "board level" (Ajax-style) retrofit using the existing cabinet on a machine like this. If you have not done industrial controls before, expect maybe 2-3 weeks.

You can't necessarily "get rid of the huge power box". The Centroid/Ajax components are likely to require much less space than the original components. However, you still need a place to put the main disconnect switch; main fuses; transformer and servo power supply; servo drive / PLC unit; emergency stop contactor; spindle contactors and overload; etc.. You also need a place to put the computer. If you don't use the original box, you will need to install a new one.

Will you have wires hanging out doors or rough holes in the cabinet? Only if you choose to leave them that way, or hire someone who does sloppy work.

If you are considering sending someone a cabinet, specs, and Ajax control components to install and wire for you, then you would be better off just buying an M39S control from Centroid. The Centroid M39S is the Ajax control in a pre-wired cabinet (or rather, the Ajax control is the components of an M39S, without the cabinet).

[JimPAC]

Stephen,

You have a choice of around 6 different retro kits that will do fine for your BP!

Ajax is Centroid in a box! I consider it to be the most cost effective and easiest to install.

Ask yourself this, Am I going to ad another machine down the road like a BP!

If so do it your self and be miles ahead of most everyone else getting into CNC!

I have 8 BP Series 1 and II boss 6 -8 machines and have built controls from scratch using PC software to run the machines. I have two currently running with centroid controls.

I have also retrofitted Mazak CNC Mills and Lathes with Centroid controls.

If you have less than 2K INVESTED IN THE MACHINE YOU CAN AFFORD TO HAVE 10k TOTAL invested AND HAVE THE BEST iron ANYWHERE.

Go for it the adventure and learning are great!


Jim

[RP Designs]

I have been trying to contact AjaxCNC for a couple of days and have yet to hear any response. I have called (got voice mail) and emailed and haven't had any reply. Unfortunately when considering a purchase I have to also consider the support I am going to get during the retrofit and if this is an indicator I am more than a bit hesitant.

[ajaxscott]

Rob,

I apologize for the delay. I've been very busy on the phone the last couple of days and I'm a little bit behind in catching up with emails and voice mail. We have a tech support line for existing customers that is answered by others as well as myself.

I will make sure to get all the email inquiries answered today so if you have not received an answer yet, you will shortly.

Regards

Scott Pratt
scott@ajaxcnc.com

[RP Designs]

Scott, received your email. It was detailed and helpful. The search continues for an appropriate machine. Thanks for your time.